Wireless Surveys In The UK

Wireless surveys are essential for designing and maintaining high-performing wireless networks, especially in urban and rural landscapes in the UK. We at Fortitude Nicsa Global, being experts in this field and proud Ekahau partners, recognise that these surveys are crucial to identify where WiFi signals are the strongest or weakest, to strategically place access points, and to troubleshoot potential issues before they become significant problems. Executing Wireless Surveys in the UK is more than just a technical necessity; it’s an investment into seamless connectivity that reflects on the efficiency and productivity of any business relying on wireless technology.

In guiding you through the complex panorama of Wireless Surveys in the UK, our article delves into the core objectives and various methodologies of wireless surveys. We will be demonstrating our approach, leveraging our partnership with Ekahau, to deliver comprehensive Wireless Survey services across the UK and globally. Starting with understanding the various surveys including predictive, onsite design, and health check surveys, we will explain how to interpret the analysed data to make informed decisions for your wireless network infrastructure. Ultimately, through a precise Wi-Fi Survey in the UK, our aim is to optimise your wireless network’s performance and reliability, ensure the network’s coverage meets your capacity requirements, enhance user experience, and proactively identify and resolve any potential issues that could impact connectivity.

Understanding Wireless Surveys

Understanding wireless surveys is a foundational step in ensuring the optimal performance of a wireless network. Here is a breakdown of the key aspects and methodologies of wireless surveys:

Types of Wireless Surveys

• Passive Surveys: These involve actual RF analysis to detect active access points, measure signal strength, and noise level without transmitting data from the surveying device. This type is beneficial for understanding the existing RF environment.
  
  
• Active Surveys: This method associates with one or several access points to measure round-trip time, throughput rates, packet loss, and retransmissions. Active surveys are crucial for assessing the performance of the wireless network as it interacts with client devices.
  
  
• Predictive Surveys: These create a virtual model of the RF environment using simulation tools to suggest optimal WAP placement and performance expectations. Predictive surveys are often used in the planning stages before any physical hardware is installed.
  
  
  
  

   

Purpose of Conducting Wireless Surveys

• To provide the necessary wireless coverage, data rates, network capacity, roaming capability, and quality of service.
  
  
• To identify optimum installation locations for access points through RF interference testing, analysis of building floor plans, and inspection of the facility.
  
  
• To determine the optimal placement of wireless access points (APs), minimise the number of WiFi APs needed, and optimise their placement for the best coverage.
  
  
• To identify coverage holes, interference sources, and ensure a reliable wireless connection for businesses.
  
  
  
  

   

Tools and Considerations for Wireless Surveys

• Utilisation of professional-level site survey applications for Microsoft Windows, with limited functionality applications available for iOS and Android.
  
  
• The cost of conducting a wireless survey can vary, influenced by factors such as building size, environment type, location, and specific client requirements.
  
  
• Recommended tools for effective surveys include AirMagnet SurveyPro, NetAlly AirCheck G2, NetAlly Etherscope nXG, Ekahau Hardware and a custom AP on a stick setup.
  
  

As an Ekahau partner, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global offer comprehensive wireless and Wi-Fi surveys throughout the UK and globally. We leverage our expertise and cutting-edge tools to ensure your wireless network is analysed thoroughly, considering all aspects of the RF environment. Our goal is to optimise your network’s performance by determining the ideal placement of access points, mitigating interference, and enhancing signal coverage.

Through our services, you can expect to address various network performance aspects, such as coverage, capacity, and interference identification. A wireless site survey is not just a technical exercise; it’s a strategic move to future-proof your wireless infrastructure and provide an uninterrupted connectivity experience. We understand that each environment is unique, and our tailored approach ensures that your specific needs are met, whether you’re in a compact office or sprawling campus.

By conducting a comprehensive Wi-Fi survey in the UK, we help you pinpoint areas with weak or non-existent signal strength and propose solutions for future improvements. Our partnership with Ekahau empowers us to deliver accurate and reliable survey results, enabling your business to thrive in a wireless world.

Identifying Your Needs

Before embarking on a wireless survey, it’s imperative to accurately identify your specific wireless needs to ensure a network that performs optimally for your particular situation. Here’s how you can pinpoint these requirements:

1. Assess Wireless Needs:

   • Determine the necessary speed and bandwidth to support your daily operations. This includes understanding the number of client devices that will connect to the network.
   • Consider the types of applications that will run on your network, such as video conferencing or large file transfers, which may require higher bandwidth.
     
     

2. High Bandwidth Areas:

   • Identify areas within your facility that will demand high bandwidth, such as offices, meeting rooms, and break rooms.
   • Evaluate whether areas like hallways, bathrooms, stairwells, and elevators need good coverage, even if they are not high bandwidth zones.
     
     

3. Active Survey Preparation:

   • Clarify wireless requirements such as target data rates and throughput.
   • Decide on the technologies to be implemented, which will influence the type of wireless survey needed.
     
     

4. Coverage Mapping:

   • Mark all areas where wireless coverage is essential and note any spaces where it is unnecessary.
   • This helps in efficient placement of access points and reduces unnecessary costs.
     
     

5. Survey Considerations:

   • Perform a site assessment to understand the physical environment.
   • Engage in capacity planning to anticipate the number of devices and the bandwidth they will consume.
   • Execute coverage planning to ensure signal strength across the required areas.
   • Conduct spectrum analysis to identify potential sources of interference.
     
     

6. Identify Interference Sources:

   • Recognise potential interference that can significantly affect WiFi performance, such as large metal objects, machinery, or external wireless signals.
     
     

7. Balance Coverage and Capacity:

   • Strike a balance between coverage and capacity to determine the number of access points needed, impacting the overall cost.
   • Understand the intended use of the wireless network, including the number and types of devices to be connected.
     
     

8. Support for Legacy Devices:

   • Consider whether supporting older devices is necessary, as it may influence the configuration and capabilities of your wireless network.
     
     

9. User Flow and Utilisation:

   • Identify highly utilised areas and the flow of users within the facility for ideal access point placement.
     
     

By thoroughly identifying these factors, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global, as an Ekahau partner, are well-equipped to conduct in-depth wireless and Wi-Fi surveys not just throughout the UK but globally. Our expertise ensures that we consider all your specific needs, from device types and user requirements to the geographical area, before conducting a wireless site survey. This meticulous approach allows us to provide you with a wireless network that is tailored to your organisation’s unique demands, ensuring efficiency and connectivity.

Pre-Survey Preparation

Preparation is key to conducting a successful wireless survey, and as an Ekahau partner, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global ensure that every detail is considered to provide thorough wireless and Wi-Fi surveys throughout the UK and the world. Here are the steps we follow to prepare for a comprehensive survey:

Facility and Infrastructure Assessment:

• Floor Plan Acquisition: We start by obtaining a floor plan, making note of potential signal blockers like walls, stairwells, and elevators, which are crucial for planning the survey. It’s important to have an accurate representation of the physical space to identify the best locations for access points and to predict potential coverage issues.
  
  
• Walkthrough Inspection: A physical walkthrough is performed to identify additional elements that may affect wireless signals, such as modular walls or metal equipment racks. This step is vital to spot any real-world issues that might not be apparent from just the floor plan alone.
  
  
• Infrastructure Evaluation: We assess the current infrastructure, scouting for suitable places to mount access points and checking for the availability of gigabit ethernet switches. This ensures that the network will have the backbone it needs to support high-speed wireless connectivity.
  
  
  

Access Point Placement Planning:

• Tentative AP Locations: Deciding on tentative access point locations is crucial. We ensure adequate coverage range and overlap for seamless roaming, dynamic load balancing, and network resiliency.
  
  
• Preliminary AP Locations: By determining preliminary access point locations, we consider user locations and range estimations of wireless LAN products. This step is essential in ensuring that the final placement of access points will provide optimal coverage and performance.
  
  
  

Equipment and Survey Design:

• Equipment Preparation: We prepare our equipment, connecting antennas to the appropriate interface port on the spectrum analyser or oscilloscope, ensuring that we are ready to capture the most accurate data during the survey.
  
  
• Survey Purpose and Obstacles Identification: Planning the survey involves identifying the purpose, determining user demand, and noting any potential obstacles for equipment deployment. This step is crucial in tailoring the survey to meet the specific needs of the environment and the organisation.
  
  
  

Documentation and Visual Verification:

• Facility Diagram and Blueprint Acquisition: Obtaining a facility diagram or locating building blueprints and city maps is essential. We prepare a drawing depicting walls, walkways, and other critical features to guide the survey process.
  
  
• Visual Facility Inspection: We visually inspect the facility to verify the accuracy of the facility diagram, note potential attenuation barriers, and identify possible access point mounting locations. This ensures that our surveys are grounded in the reality of the environment.
  
  

By meticulously preparing for a wireless survey, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global, leveraging our partnership with Ekahau, are equipped to offer detailed wireless surveys in the UK and beyond. We consider every aspect of your environment to ensure that your wireless network meets your needs today and is scalable for the future. Our approach to Wi-Fi survey in the UK involves not just technical analysis but also a strategic understanding of your organisation’s operations, ensuring that the wireless network supports and enhances your business activities

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Conducting a Passive Survey

Conducting a passive survey is a crucial part of our wireless survey services, where we gather essential data on the existing wireless setup of a location. Here’s how we, as an Ekahau partner, perform this task effectively:

1. Site Walkthrough:

   • We start with a thorough walkthrough of the area, using specialised equipment like a spectrum analyser to measure the power level of signals.
   • Our goal is to record key metrics about the coverage, such as signal strength and noise levels, from various points within the surveyed area.
     
     

2. Data Collection:

   • During the survey, we collect RF data by walking every square foot of the facility.
   • This meticulous approach ensures we capture an accurate representation of the wireless environment, identifying weak or non-existent signal areas.
     
     

3. Analysis and Planning:

   • Findings from the passive survey are crucial for planning future improvements in the wireless infrastructure.
   • We use wireless site survey software to verify the coverage of each preliminary access point location, addressing signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) issues, and dealing with co-channel interference (CCI).
     
     

By conducting a comprehensive passive wireless survey, we ensure that we fully understand the actual wireless coverage. This type of survey, which does not involve transmitting data but rather listens for existing wireless signals, is essential for identifying areas that require attention. Moreover, it allows us to detect unauthorised devices within the network, which is critical for maintaining network security. Our expertise in conducting a passive survey as part of our Wireless Surveys In The UK, helps businesses optimise their wireless networks for better performance and reliability.

Conducting an Active Survey

Conducting an active survey is a detailed process that allows us to measure the performance of a wireless network under real-world conditions. As an Ekahau partner, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global specialise in providing comprehensive Wireless Surveys In The UK and globally. Here’s how we execute an active survey:

1. Equipment Setup:

   • We begin by assembling the necessary tools, including spectrum analysers and oscilloscopes, which are vital for capturing accurate data on the RF signal strength.
   • Directional and omnidirectional antennas are selected based on the specific requirements of the survey area to ensure precise measurement of network performance.
     
     
     

2. Survey Execution:

   • The optimal location and direction for the antenna are determined to capture a comprehensive data set.
   • We connect the antenna to the spectrum analyser or oscilloscope, setting the sampling rate to gather the necessary information.
   • Throughout the survey, we save the results at each location to maintain a detailed record of the network’s performance.
     
     
     

3. Data Analysis and Access Point Verification:

   • After data collection, we analyse the results to assess the quality and strength of the wireless signal at each access point location.
   • Using wireless site survey software or third-party tools, we verify that each access point is correctly installed and functioning as expected.
   • We install an access point at each preliminary location, monitoring the signal strength and quality to ensure optimal coverage.
     
     
     

4. Documentation and Finalisation:

   • Our findings are meticulously documented, depicting the precise location of each access point on facility diagrams for future reference by installers.
   • We take detailed notes about our observations during the survey to provide a comprehensive understanding of the network’s current state.
   • The process is repeated with any additional equipment needed to complete the survey, ensuring no area is left unchecked.
     
     
     

5. Consultation and Record Update:

   • Upon completion of the survey, we engage in a consultation with the service provider to discuss the results and update records accordingly.
   • This step is crucial in maintaining an accurate and up-to-date understanding of the wireless network’s capabilities and areas for improvement.
     
     
     

By conducting an active survey, we not only measure the current performance of the wireless network but also identify areas for enhancement. Our partnership with Ekahau enables us to deliver accurate and reliable Wi-Fi Survey In The UK, ensuring that the wireless infrastructure meets the demands of users and supports the business’s objectives effectively.

Utilising Predictive Surveys

When planning for wireless networks in new buildings where the actual environment is not yet accessible, predictive surveys become an invaluable tool. Here’s how we at Fortitude Nicsa Global, leveraging our partnership with Ekahau, utilise predictive surveys to ensure your wireless network is robust and ready for deployment:

Steps for Conducting Predictive Wireless Surveys

1. Virtual Environment Mapping:

   • We run a wireless site survey using advanced software tools that allow us to create a virtual model of your building.
   • Through this virtual mapping, we can strategically plan out access point placements for optimal coverage, even when the physical space is not yet ready for an on-site survey.
     
     
     

2. Estimation of Network Components:

   • Using predictive surveys, we can accurately estimate the number of access points (APs) required, their ideal placement, and the expected coverage area. This step is crucial to avoid costly over- or under-deployment of network resources.
   • The process involves using sophisticated software such as Ekahau Pro, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, or AirMagnet, which utilise building plans and environmental data to simulate the wireless environment.
     
     
     

3. Software-Generated Data Analysis:

   • The predictive survey software processes the input data to generate a rough placement of APs and corresponding coverage heat maps.
   • These heat maps visually represent signal strength throughout the virtual space, allowing us to make informed decisions about access point locations for uniform wireless coverage.
     
     
     

      

Ongoing Benefits of Predictive Surveys

• Performance Monitoring: By regularly conducting predictive surveys, we can monitor the network’s performance and identify any changes that might affect connectivity, ensuring your network remains efficient and reliable over time.
  
  
  
• Future-Proofing: As wireless technology evolves, with the integration of IoT devices, adoption of Wi-Fi 6 and 6E standards, and heightened focus on network security, predictive surveys help us plan for these advancements, ensuring your network is scalable and secure.
  
  
  

As your Ekahau partner, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global are dedicated to offering comprehensive wireless and Wi-Fi surveys not just in the UK but globally. Our expertise in predictive surveys means that before a single cable is laid or an access point is mounted, you can be confident in the strength and reliability of your future wireless network. By simulating and planning with precision, we help you avoid unnecessary costs and disruptions, ensuring a smooth rollout of your wireless infrastructure.

Interpreting Survey Results

Interpreting the results of a wireless survey is a critical step in ensuring the performance and reliability of your wireless network. As an Ekahau partner, we at Fortitude Nicsa Global specialise in conducting thorough wireless and Wi-Fi surveys throughout the UK and globally. Here are the key considerations when analysing survey data:

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) Range Boundary: The SNR is a crucial metric that indicates the difference between the signal strength and the background noise level. An SNR within the acceptable range boundary is essential for a reliable wireless connection.
  
  

• Uplink Signal Strength: This measures the strength of the signal from the client device back to the access point. A strong uplink signal is vital for ensuring that devices can effectively communicate with the network.
  
  

• Signal Quality and RF Interference: Poor signal quality can be a sign of RF interference, which may require relocating access points or further investigation into the source of the interference. This is a critical aspect of optimising network performance.
  
  

When reviewing the findings from a wireless survey, we also consider the following common issues and their solutions:

• Misplaced Access Points: Access points that are not optimally placed can lead to coverage gaps or overlap issues, affecting network performance.
  
  

• RF Cell Overlap Problems: Excessive overlap between cells can cause co-channel interference, which can be resolved by adjusting the channel plan or access point placement.
  
  

• Coverage Gaps: Identifying areas with weak or no signal and refining access point locations can help eliminate coverage gaps and ensure consistent connectivity.
  
  

• Improper Power Levels: Adjusting the power levels of access points can help address issues with signal strength and coverage.
  
  

Based on the survey results, our recommendations may include:

• Access Point Model Upgrades: Choosing better-suited AP models to match the specific needs of your environment.
  
  

• New RF Wireless Network Design: Redesigning the wireless network to improve coverage and capacity.
  
  

• Channel Bonding Adjustments: Tweaking channel bonding settings to optimise bandwidth and reduce interference.
  
  

• Data Rate Modifications: Removing lower data rates to enhance the overall network performance.
  
  

• Improved AP Mounting: Adjusting the mounting of APs for better signal distribution and coverage.
  
  

Utilising tools from Ekahau’s Wi-Fi Product Suite, such as Ekahau Sidekick 2 and Ekahau AI Pro, we are equipped to provide accurate diagnostics and step-by-step network optimisations. These tools help us collect raw data, perform RF spectrum analysis, and interpret survey results with precision.

By partnering with us for your Wireless Surveys In The UK, you can expect a detailed examination of multiple factors—including cost, access, performance, and security—to identify and rectify potential connectivity issues. Our expertise, combined with Ekahau’s cutting-edge technology, ensures that your wireless network is not only tailored to your current requirements but is also future-ready.

Implementing Survey Recommendations

Implementing the recommendations from a wireless survey is a multi-step process that ensures the wireless network delivers the coverage and performance needed. Here’s how we at Fortitude Nicsa Global, as an Ekahau partner, approach the implementation:

Steps to Implement Wireless Survey Recommendations

1. Documenting Findings:

   • Record the results from the wireless survey, noting the final locations for Wi-Fi access points.
   • Outline a detailed wireless infrastructure plan that incorporates these findings.
     
     
     

2. Regular Wireless Site Surveys:

   • Conduct site surveys regularly, ideally every six months, to prevent downtime and enhance performance.
   • Budget for these surveys, keeping in mind that they can cost between £750 to £10,000 upwards, depending on the complexity and size of the network.
     
     
     

3. Validation Surveys:

   • After implementing a predictive survey’s recommendations, perform a validation survey to confirm the network operates as expected in the real world.
   • This step is critical to ensure the theoretical design translates into a functioning network that meets user needs.
     
     
     

Importance of Regular Surveys

• Proactive Issue Identification: Regular surveys help detect and address issues before they escalate, maintaining network health.
  
  
  
• Performance Optimisation: Continuous surveys are essential for performance tuning, especially when deploying new networks or making significant changes.
  
  
  
  

Implementing Survey Recommendations

• Action Plan: Create an action plan based on the survey data that includes timelines, responsibilities, and resources needed for implementation.
  
  
  
• Infrastructure Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments to the wireless infrastructure, such as adding or moving access points, changing antenna types, or updating firmware.
  
  
  
• Monitoring and Adjustment: Continuously monitor the network performance after changes are made and be ready to make further adjustments as needed.
  
  
  

By following these steps, we help ensure that the wireless networks we survey and manage in the UK and around the world are optimised for peak performance. Regular surveys and validation are integral to our process, providing a clear path to a robust and reliable wireless infrastructure. As a trusted provider of Wireless Surveys In The UK, we are committed to delivering high-quality service that meets the evolving needs of our clients.

Our Thoughts & Next Steps

Throughout this discussion, we’ve highlighted the pivotal role of wireless and Wi-Fi surveys in the connectivity fabric of modern companies. Fortitude Nicsa Global, utilising our position as an Ekahau partner, ensures these assessments are meticulous and customised, whether conducted in the UK or any location worldwide. Our commitment to this crucial process enables businesses to create networks that are not only robust and efficient today but are ready to evolve with future advancements in wireless technology.

To safeguard your businesses connectivity and performance, it is imperative to understand the comprehensive nature of these surveys and recognise their strategic value. Should the need arise to refine and enhance your wireless infrastructure, remember that a detailed survey by a trusted Ekahau partner is indispensable. Do not hesitate to book a wireless survey, empowering your business with the connectivity it deserves.

FAQs

What is the purpose of conducting a wireless survey? A wireless survey, also known as an RF (Radio Frequency) site survey, is conducted to design and plan a wireless network. The goal is to ensure that the network provides adequate coverage, data rates, network capacity, and roaming capabilities, as well as the desired quality of service (QoS).